Bunions

A bunion (also known as hallux valgus) is a partial dislocation of the great (big) toe at its base joint. A progressive condition, bunions tend to get worse over time. The end of the big toe slowly dislocates further and further in the direction of the smaller toes. At the same time, the end of the first metatarsal at the base of the toe becomes more prominent, creating an obvious “bump” on the inside of the foot.

Over time, this gradual dislocation of the joint causes abnormal function as the toe goes one way and the first metatarsal goes in the opposite direction. Symptoms include increased pain, localized swelling and redness, and stiffness in the joint. You may also feel a burning sensation due to shoes pushing against one of the nerves in the area around the bony prominence.

What Causes Bunions?

Heredity can play a significant role in the development of this deformity—in other words, bunions tend to run in families. Abnormal mechanical function of the foot is a major potential cause as well, along with trauma.

Statistically, women are more likely to develop bunions then men. This is largely a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes that are narrower in the toe box.

As the bunion progresses, it can sometimes lead to other deformities, such as hammertoes.

Treatment for Bunions

During your initial appointment, we’ll obtain an appropriate history and perform a physical examination. This includes evaluating your biomechanics and radiographic imaging. This helps us build an effective treatment plan personalized to your situation.

Conservative treatments such as shoe modifications, foot padding, splints or wedges, anti-inflammatory medications, or custom orthotics may be recommended. These modalities will not permanently realign the joint, since they don’t fundamentally change the structure of your feet. However, they can diminish or eliminate painful symptoms.

For a more severe bunion, your podiatrist may discuss and recommend surgical treatment. A wide variety of surgical procedures are available, and will be selected based on the type and extent of the deformity. Surgery may be performed outpatient at our office, rather than in a hospital or surgical center. To schedule your appointment, give us a call today at (254) 776-6995.